Lifestyle

20 of America's Best Historic Homes You Definitely Have to Visit

Yes, it's time to plan a trip!

The 30 cheapest places to live in the US in 2024

Living in the US can be expensive, but some cities still have a much lower cost of living compared to others. The platform Niche compiled a list of the most affordable cities to live in the US in 2024. When assessing the cost of living, they considered factors such as housing costs, tax rates, and the cost of essentials like food and fuel. Curious to discover the 30 most affordable US cities to live in this year? Then click through the gallery.

Unearthed! Priceless buried treasures revealed

A popular and sometimes hugely rewarding pastime, metal detecting can literally unearth the past, and with it, a hoard of valuable treasures. Enthusiasts around the world have been hoping to strike gold since the 1950s when metal detectors were increasingly used for non-military purposes. Browse this gallery and meet the lucky few who have successfully detected riches buried in the past.

Ancient sites worth visiting

History has left us with some truly remarkable visitor attractions, many of which date back to antiquity. Whether standing alone as a singular piece of architecture or as part of a wider archaeological site, these ancient wonders inspire and educate in equal measure. But where in the world can you find some of the most illustrious of these extraordinary hand-built treasures? Click though and marvel at these ancient sites worth visiting.

The world's most feared gangs

The shadowy world of criminal gangs has long fascinated and horrified societies around the globe. From the ruthless Sicilian Mafia, whose influence has been immortalized in countless films, to the elusive Yakuza with their deep-rooted traditions and modern enterprises, these organizations wield power that often challenges the very fabric of law and order. Delve into the lives of the most feared and notorious gangs of 2024, exploring the intricate web of their operations, the myths surrounding their legacies, and the stark realities of their impact on communities worldwide. Curious to find out who they are and where they operate? Click through to unveil the world's most formidable gangs.

The fascinating stories behind the world's most famous paintings

These masterpieces are more than just strokes of paint on canvas; they are vibrant narratives that have shaped the course of art and culture. From the mysterious allure of the 'Mona Lisa' to the vivid turmoil of Van Gogh's 'Starry Night,' each painting is a portal to a different time and place. Uncover the tales behind these celebrated works: the hidden meanings, the historical contexts, and the personal struggles of the artists who created them. Click through to unravel the stories behind these timeless creations and feel the enduring power of visual art.

16 magical places ruled by wild animals

From islands swarming with scarlet crabs to towns overrun with mischievous baboons, we take a look at some of the places around the world where animals have taken control.

Indigenous America's most sacred landmarks

The most sacred sites in America number some of the nation's most cherished landmarks and natural wonders. Of considerable cultural and spiritual significance to indigenous peoples long before the arrival of European settlers, these locations served as places of habitation, scenes of ceremony, and burial grounds for prehistoric tribes and Native Americans. They were also seen as the embodiment of ancient gods, and worshipped accordingly. Today, many of these locales have been preserved as national monuments, with some designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. So, where in the US can you find the most revered destinations? Click through and seek out indigenous America's most evocative landmarks.

Skylines in technicolor: The most colorful cityscapes in America

If you are planning a summer getaway to a stunning city rich with color and culture, don't buy an international ticket just yet. There are plenty of beautiful pastel-colored streets to be discovered in our own backyards. Click through the following gallery and uncover the top 15 colorful cities in the US you absolutely need to see in your lifetime.

30 woods and jungles for nature lovers

Picture yourself stepping into a world where nature weaves its enchanting tales: the realm of the forest. Imagine a symphony of rustling leaves, the scent of earth, and dappling sunlight playing hide-and-seek through the dense canopy. From the towering redwoods of California, where ancient giants touch the sky, to the lush rainforests of the Amazon, where biodiversity thrives in a kaleidoscope of colors, this journey is your personalized ticket to rediscover the untamed magic of the great outdoors. Let these woods and jungles be your storybook, each chapter revealing the beauty of our planet in its purest form. Swipe through to learn more about the splendor of the natural world.

The last unexplored places on Earth

We've been to the Moon, so surely we know every corner of our planet, right? Not quite. Many places on Earth remain largely unexplored. From unclimbed mountains, to the depths of the oceans and rainforests, there are still many ecosystems to be discovered. And not only are there unexplored places, there are also still uncontacted peoples out there! Earth is indeed a big place, and we've not seen it all. In this gallery, we've compiled a list of some of our planet's unexplored places. Click through and start your journey of discovery.

The biggest historical mysteries that will probably never get resolved

No matter how much we know about the past, there are still many historical mysteries that may never get resolved. From the date of Jesus' birth to Jack the Ripper's true identity, certain things have no explanation. This could be because relevant documentation or excavated items have been lost or destroyed. Other times, the evidence has been too vague to lead to any consensus. In the end, we might very well never find the answers, which makes these historical questions even more intriguing. Want to discover the world's biggest historical mysteries? Then check out the following gallery.

We've hunted down the world's BEST underground attractions

We've dug up the most interesting underground attractions across the globe, from wartime tunnels and salt mines to rock-hewn temples and ancient cisterns beneath modern-day cities.

Popular tourist destinations with weird laws (that you should be careful about)

When in Rome, do as the Romans do, right? This holds true to this day, as when we travel we should be aware of local customs and laws so that we don't end up in an unpleasant situation, or worse: fined or arrested. Indeed, most countries have bizarre laws, even if some are not strictly enforced. As visitors, we should be aware of them, as they can make a difference in the quality of our vacation. If you were planning a steamy vacation with your unwed partner in Bali, you might want to do it sooner rather than later. Indonesia’s parliament passed a controversial and long-awaited revision of its penal code on December 6 which criminalizes extramarital intimacy for both citizens and tourists. After ratification, the new criminal code must be signed by the president, and it will be applied for up to three years, according to NBC. The amended criminal code makes intimacy outside marriage punishable by a year in jail, as well as cohabitation of unmarried couples punishable by six months. It also says the promotion of contraception and religious blasphemy are illegal. Curious for more? Click through this gallery and discover the weird laws of popular tourist destinations.

Indoor activities that are perfect for adults during rainy days

Stormy weather doesn't have to stop the fun. Even if your outdoor plans have been canceled, you can still find plenty of fun rainy day activities to do at home. Whether you're flying solo or entertaining friends, you'll be able to keep boredom at bay for hours on end! From working up a sweat to giving yourself a DIY facial, this gallery has all the inspiration you need! Click on for more.

The best cuisines in the world, ranked

The annual TasteAtlas ranking of the world's best cuisines has been recently published. This list of the top cuisines on the planet was based on the average ratings of the best-rated dishes and food products of each country. Curious to know which countries made the top 30? Click through the following gallery and discover the best cuisines in the world.

Toltecs: the mysteries and wisdom of an ancient civilization

When discussing pre-Columbian civilizations, our thoughts often turn to the Aztecs, the Mayans, and the Incas. However, in addition to these prominent groups, there were other civilizations that made significant contributions to science, gastronomy, and spirituality. The Toltecs, for example, lived in the 10th century in what we know today as Mexico. If you are eager to embark on a journey to the past, you can expect to encounter breathtaking landscapes, remarkable monuments, and ancient wisdom that will inspire and astonish you. Click through the gallery to get started.

From Thailand to Singapore | Here To Stay

"Now that I'm older, I realised that it's more about how I would define my own identity and not being boxed up by how people perceive me." Phanipha Lee moved from Thailand to Singapore at age three. Growing up in a multicultural family, she faced challenges with identity and cultural differences. Now, she values Singapore's diversity and education and is eager to give back to the community while building a future for her family. Watch more: https://www.asiaone.com/video

Travel package tickets for Coldplay’s Hong Kong shows snapped up on Klook within 10 minutes

Fans and overseas visitors have scrambled for Coldplay’s coming shows in Hong Kong on the second day of sales, with tickets on a partner travel platform sold out in just 10 minutes. A majority of Tuesday’s ticket sales, which began at 10am, were expected to be customers from overseas, as the concert passes had to be bought in pairs and as part of a package including one- or two-night hotel stays. A check by the Post found there were around 1,500...

Mesmerising cathedral mosaics made with 2 tonnes of gold return to former glory in Sicily

US$1.2 million restoration sees the mosaics of Sicily's Monreale Cathedral, a Unesco World Heritage site, set to regain their golden lustre The mosaics of a medieval cathedral in Sicily, built by the island's last Norman king, are set to regain their golden lustre thanks to careful restoration work and new lighting. The Monreale Cathedral, which wa...

"The Dreaming": The spirit world that accompanies our physical one

Aboriginal culture in Australia is one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world. A key concept in this culture is something anthropologists named "The Dreaming." In Aboriginal spiritual belief, the beings that were responsible for creation are as much alive today as they were in the times of mythos. The Dreaming had a beginning, but it has no foreseeable end. It presents a worldview, one that is non-linear and therefore is grounded in the idea of continuity, fluidity, and the importance of story. Intrigued? Click on to learn more about this ancient cultural worldview.

Royal treasures: Discover the largest private art collection in the world

The Royal Collection of the British Royal Family is the largest private art collection in the world. Housed variously in occupied and historic royal residences across the United Kingdom, this vast treasure trove is owned by King Charles and overseen by the Royal Collection Trust. It numbers the priceless Crown Jewels, rare Old Masters, and unique Fabergé eggs among many other rare and extraordinary artifacts. Click through and be dazzled by the treasures of the Royal Collection.

Why Desaru Coast, new 5-star Malaysian resort hotspot, is well worth a visit

Luxury resorts, pristine beaches and award-winning spas combine with a strong eco ethos at Malaysia's crowd-free Desaru Coast Malaysia is a popular destination for Asian travellers, particularly the capital Kuala Lumpur, the food paradise island of Penang, and Kota Kinabalu, which offers easy access to the jungles and mountains of Borneo. Now a new...

The Empire State Building: beautiful pics and interesting facts

Cool, sleek, and elegant, the Empire State Building is an American cultural icon, a stunning example of art deco splendor set in one of the most exciting cities in the world. Visited by millions since its opening on May 1, 1931, it's also one of the most photographed structures on the planet. But how do you capture a picture that's different from the usual postcard view? Here's a gallery of photos that capture the building in an offbeat manner. Click and find your favorite, and catch up on some interesting facts along the way.

Who invented the plane? For many, it wasn't the Wright Brothers

The history of aviation has followed a fascinating trajectory. Leonardo da Vinci first envisaged manned flight way back in the 15th century. Then came hot-air balloons, followed by gliders and airships, until the Wright brothers' historic powered flight in 1903. Today there are airliners that can carry hundreds of passengers non-stop half way round the world. And space tourism will one day be a reality. Browse the following gallery and take off for a brief flight through the history of aviation, and meet some of the great pioneers of air travel along the way.

25 airports that are nowhere near the cities they're named after

Many airports actually drop passengers far from the cities, towns or resorts they’re visiting. In ascending order of distance, here are some of the airports that are farthest away from the destinations they claim to serve.

Long-Dry River Unearths Hidden Treasures After Years

These Are the 10 of the World's Most Beautiful Hiking Trips

Talk about majestic scenery!

Our new home? What we've learned about the Moon since 1969

It's been over 50 years since we first landed on the Moon. The Apollo 11 astronauts made history, and we haven't stopped exploring the Moon ever since. In fact, we are constantly learning new things about the Earth's satellites. But what exactly? It turns out, quite a lot. Browse through this gallery and discover how far we've come since 1969.

The 30 happiest countries in the world (the US isn't in the top 20)

The United Nations has released its World Happiness Report for 2024. The survey considered 143 countries and saw that it's not all doom and gloom. Once again, this year the Nordic countries dominate the top spots in the ranking, but there are also a few surprises in the top 30. Curious? Click on to discover the happiest countries on the planet.

The best places to retire in 2024

If you are coming up to retirement age, you may already be thinking about making big changes in your lifestyle! Many people choose to retire to a new location, even a new country, when they're finally free to enjoy their golden years. Whether this is because of weather, safety, or financial reasons, everyone has a different idea about what is most important to them when making these decisions. Take a look through this gallery to discover the best places to retire in 2024.

10 amazing cave homes that we'd LOVE to live in

If you fancy living somewhere a little different, take inspiration from these incredible cave homes. Rustic and unique, they have all the creature comforts you'll ever need, with just a little added magic. Step inside the most beautiful cavernous homes in the world...

30 of the best colleges in the US today

According to U.S. News & World Report, the 30 US colleges/universities highlighted in this gallery are considered the "Best National Universities." By clicking through, you can explore these seats of learning and discover more about each one, including campus size and estimated tuition and fees. Ready to see which schools made the top 30? Read on! All values in USD.

The five ancient cities that once ruled North America

Well before the Europeans arrived, the indigenous people of North America raised cities that rivaled those an ocean away. From Teotihuacan to Cahokia, these ancient metropolises featured striking pyramids, palaces, temples, and tombs. Some even had ties throughout Central America, while others were believed to have had the equal power and advancements of the Inca and Aztec. Today, archaeologists are slowly discovering more about the splendid past of North America's first megacities. Intrigued? Let's find out more about these ancient metropolises.

Southwest Airlines goes down across the US

Southwest Airlines confirmed its website and app are down, leaving customers unable to buy tickets or see flight states.

Bali tourists could face jail for life under strict new law: What Aussies need to know

Aussies could spend up to 20 years in a Bali prison cell if they're found to have broken strict new laws flagged by the Indonesian Department of Immigration.

What are the world's weirdest conspiracy theories?

The world is full of wonder and mystery, and, indeed, there are certainly a fair share of people who have a talent for turning confusion into bizarre and interesting conspiracy theories! And while, admittedly, there are some conspiracy theories that have turned out to be true, there are others that can be seen as a bit absurd... With this in mind, click through the following gallery to read up on some of the strangest conspiracy theories around.

The most terrifying and dangerous creatures living underwater

The oceans and wetlands are inhabited by some of the most lethal creatures on Earth. Consider the hidden dangers beneath the surface of the water the next time you go swimming in the sea or take a leisurely paddle in a river! These aquatic animals range from poisonous to outright vicious. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to see the most dangerous water-dwellers in the world.

You’re eating these snacks all WRONG – here’s why

From dunking your Oreos the wrong way to incorrectly filling your tacos, these are the snack food faux pas you never realised you were making (and what you should be doing instead).

Paris, Venice and even Jackson Hole: exploring China's copycat cities

The deadliest surf spots on the planet

Surfing in extreme conditions can be a life-threatening experience, but many thrill-seeking surfers still keep chasing the biggest swells and the most challenging waves on the planet in search of the ultimate ride. Click through this gallery and get to know the most dangerous surf spots in the world.

Which countries have the tallest and shortest populations?

Which country do you think ranks as the nation with the tallest average human height? On the other hand, which country do you think has the shortest average human height? World Population Review has published its Average Height by Country 2024 report, and it makes for some interesting statistics. But exactly where on the planet do the tallest and shortest people live? Click through and find out if you measure up.

7 abandoned historic homes just waiting to be rescued

From crumbling castles to faded forts and abandoned mansions, we've rounded up the best fixer-upper homes for sale right now

In pictures: beloved beaches from the sky

We're used to experiencing beaches by sitting on the sand and marvelling at the power of the ocean. These aerial shots will have you seeing the world's empty and beautiful beaches in a whole new light.

The most beautiful buttes in America

These geological landmarks are among the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Buttes are formed by erosion and weathering over millions of years, and they can take the shape of small hills with sheer, vertical sides, or gigantic monoliths that reach high into the sky. Many of these sites hold significant religious importance and demand exploration with the utmost respect and deference. Others provide incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation. Nonetheless, all of these buttes exemplify Mother Nature's ability to inspire and surprise. Take a moment to appreciate some of the most beautiful buttes in America! Click through the gallery to get started.

Everything you need to know about Scottish culture and traditions

Scotland boasts a rich heritage of unique customs and traditions. You may know that the flag is blue and white, and the national dish is haggis, but do you know the first-footing tradition or what the Loony Dook is? This gallery covers it all, so whether you're planning a vacation or simply curious about the country's practices, click through to find out all you need to know about Scotland's cultural tapestry.

Bucket-list eco-friendly hotels across the world you'll love

Here, we green-light some of the best ultra-sustainable resorts that go beyond the norm to incorporate eco-friendly thinking into their design.

Colic: What it is, what causes it, and how you can treat it

Welcoming a child into the world can be one of the happiest and most beautiful experiences in a person's life. Countless people around the world hold newborns in their arms and look towards a purposeful future of love, nurturing, and, of course, hard work. Caring for an infant is a roller coaster of emotions, oscillating between extreme joy and extreme exhaustion. For many new parents and caretakers, one of the first extreme hardships will be caring for a colicky baby. Babies with colic are known to cry incessantly into the night, suffer from gastrointestinal pain, and be subjected to so much stress that their face turns red. Thankfully, colic is rarely dangerous, but it can take a massive toll on both the baby and the caretakers who can suffer from irritation and sleep deprivation as well. The more one knows about colic, however, the easier it can be to handle this condition. Read on to find out all you need to know colic, and how to get you and your baby through it.

The best jazz clubs around the world

Jazz music has an incredible history. It was a genre born and reborn in various small venues across great distances, changing a little bit here and there over many years as it passed through the hands of so many genius musicians, as well as through the various energies packed into the small spaces where the pioneers of the genre went against the grain and made music their own way. The best way to experience jazz is certainly to have it right in front of you, as its founders intended. Sitting in a cozy jazz club and enjoying the atmosphere can be an incredible reset to your own energy. Plus, choosing a jazz club with history can make your experience even more meaningful. Intrigued? Click through to see some of the top jazz clubs around the world.

The most instagrammed tourist attractions in the world

Whether in a selfie, a group picture or just a snapshot of the landmark, there are certain tourist attractions that earn more posts on social media than others. Click on the gallery to see the 20 most instagrammed photos in the world!